The Role of Servers in Industrial Automation

Servers play an important role in industrial automation by acting as centralized locations for information transfer and storage, as well as facilitating monitoring and control. With servers, industries can enable real-time monitoring of their processes and equipment. 

Are you a business owner in California looking for more information about servers and their importance in industrial automation? Maybe you’d like to know more about what servers do exactly.

In this article, the experts at Access Industrial Automation will explain the role of servers in industrial automation as well as the types of servers used. We will also discuss security considerations when using these servers. 

Keep reading to learn all about the part servers play in industrial automation. 

What is a Server?

A server is a hub for data storage and transfers. It acts as a centralized location for information that only authorized people can access. Database servers are the most common type of server, but there are other server types on the market. 

Servers can be in a physical, on-premise location or part of a virtual or cloud server. Servers play a crucial role in the automation process as they help to run different equipment. 

Server Types

Database servers are the most frequently used type of servers, but there are other kinds of servers like print servers, web servers, file servers, and more. Regardless of the type of server, they are all designed to manage data and data access. 

The Client-Server Model 

A client-server model is a server that can be accessed by multiple clients. When the clients ask the server for information with the correct credentials for access, the server sends the client the data. 

Servers are the most valuable to industries when there are multiple points of data generation. The server will act as a hub to store and manage this data, which creates a more organized and efficient way for industries to communicate data and information. 

How Servers are Used in the Industrial Process

Servers play a central role in industrial automation by managing and optimizing various processes and tasks through data acquisition, transmission, analysis, and more. Here’s an overview of the role servers have in the industrial process:

• Data acquisition: Industrial automation servers work to collect data from big to small details on the industrial process and equipment. This data is processed inside the servers.
• Data transmission: Data is transmitted to servers using communication protocols and makes it so the data available is ready for analysis.
• Data analysis: Once the data is received, the servers will analyze it to identify any trends or other useful information. 
• Real-time monitoring capabilities: With servers, industries are able to access real-time monitoring of their processes. This current information on production rates and other relevant information can be incredibly useful to businesses and companies
• Communication: Communication between different components of the industrial automation system is made possible by servers. This smooth and streamlined communication ensures that all the important components of the system work together efficiently. 
• Data storage: Industries use large amounts of data, and servers provide the necessary space for them to store it. With servers, industries can hold onto important data for different purposes such as reports or auditing. 

In summary, servers play an irreplaceable role in the industrial automation process. By acting as the centralized hub for all the industry’s information, servers help streamline the efficiency and reliability of the industrial process. 

Security Considerations in Industrial Servers

Due to their crucial nature in data storage and management, it is essential for industries to secure their servers against possible security breaches and cyber-attacks. Security breaches can be prevented by implementing access controls, regularly updating software, and more. 

Here are some other tips industries can use to keep their servers safe: 

• Regularly backup critical data stored on the industrial servers 
• Teach workers about potential threats and help them follow best security practices
• Ensure physical security measures, like restricting access to server rooms 
• Have firewalls in place to help filter out unauthorized access attempts and suspicious communication

By keeping your server secure against security breaches, you can ensure your industry’s critical information stays protected and safe for a long time to come. 

Industrial Automation Services in California

Access Industrial Automation (AIA) offers tailored industrial automation services in multiple locations throughout central California. We offer a variety of services, including system integration, PLC programming, and SCADA and HMI design. 

At Access Industrial Automation, we provide a complete solution for your industry process. This includes the design, integration, installation, and maintenance of all automation equipment. We also offer comprehensive training to your employees so they can operate the machinery properly. 

These services are delivered by a team of experienced automation engineers and program managers who value quality work. Get started on moving your business into the future and contact Access Industrial Automation today online or by calling (209)-577-1491. 

Frequently Asked Questions: 

What types of servers are commonly used in industrial automation?

Database servers are the most commonly used in industrial automation, but there are other types, such as edge servers, cloud servers, print and file servers, and other hybrid solutions.

What does an industrial server do? 

Industrial servers are used to control industrial equipment, store, visualize, and communicate production data, and monitor the industrial process. 

What are the benefits of using a server in industrial automation?

Industrial servers can help the efficiency and security of industrial automation by acting as a centralized hub for data. By storing and analyzing this data, industries can better control and optimize their process. This helps up productivity levels and can help with profits. 

Are industrial servers at risk of security breaches?

Industrial servers without the proper security measures in place can be at risk of security breaches. These breaches can be prevented by regular updates, firewalls, data encryption, and other important security measures.